Alzheimer's funding needed

I am a nurse, but I can no longer practice my profession because I have been diagnosed with Early Stage Alzheimer's. But I can and have, become an advocate for better diagnosis of this dreaded desease.

Precise diagnosis is essential in helping Alzheimer's. Many forms of dementia seem like Alzheimers and can be cured, but Alzheimer's, does not have a cure.

The diagnostic tests are expensive, but critical in designing the best care plan for the Alzheimer's patient is to more accurately pinpoint the research to find a cure.

Congress has recognized how important Alzheimer's research is and required the creation of a National Alzheimer's plan. This plan calls for an additional $100 million for research, more precise diagnosis and better care plans.

In April, hundreds of volunteers like me, traveled to Washington, D.C. to talk with our representatives in Congress about supporting this much needed funding in this year's federal budget.

I implore everyone reading this letter to send emails, letters and make phone calls to our elected officials in support of Alzheimer's funding. Mike Thompson is our man in Congress. Ask for his support, and the support of his colleagues.

Please, today add your voice in support of an additional $100 million to fund the National Alzheimer's Plan. Just visit us at www.actionalz.org to join the movement.